Official: A surprise Bundesliga return for Brajan Gruda

Brajan Gruda joined RB Leipzig on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion until the end of the season. The 21-year-old scored in big wins against Manchester City and Manchester United this season, despite not quite living up to expectations since his move from Mainz 05.

Gruda will wear the number 10 at Leipzig. The left-footed player has featured in 39 Premier League games for Brighton in the past 18 months. “When the opportunity arose to bring Brajan on loan, we were immediately enthusiastic,” said Leipzig’s managing director of sport, Marcel Schäfer.

“We've had him on our radar for several years and would have liked to bring him to Leipzig in 2024. Even after that, contact was never broken. So we're all the happier now, even if it's initially a loan. We see Brajan playing in the number eight and ten roles, where he gives us even more options.”

Gruda himself talked about how his playing style fits the club. “I was determined to join RB Leipzig as soon as it became clear that a winter transfer was possible for me,” said the Germany U21 international.

“RB Leipzig is not only an absolute top club in Germany, but their style of play also suits me perfectly. There has been regular contact between RB Leipzig and me in the past. Therefore, I'm delighted to be here now.”